As a lazy dresser, if I can’t immediately see how a new trend fits into my wardrobe, I usually write it off. That’s why I tend to ignore most trainer trends—I might love them on someone else, but since I already struggle to find trainers that suit me, I stick to what I know. However, if a style has Parisian approval, I might just give it a second look.
Looking to the French is a fail-safe way to gauge what’s actually cool and likely to last, especially when we’re bombarded with dozens of new trends every season. Speaking generally (and at the risk of stereotyping), the French seem to have a knack for identifying what’s timeless and worth investing in, picking and choosing trends with enviable precision. So when I noticed five trainer trends getting the French-girl stamp of approval, I had to dig a little deeper.
Certain models from specific brands are clear favourites among the French style set—from a cult Japanese label to a luxury fashion house leading summer’s sneaker game. For these top picks and more covetable kicks, keep scrolling to shop your favourites.
The French Trainer Trends to Take Note of For 2025:
1. Miu Miu Trainers
Style Notes: Miu Miu might be Italian, but it’s been wholeheartedly adopted by France’s style-savvy population. They’re certainly not the only ones—the Plume and Gymnasium models, in particular, are a global fashion phenomenon.
Shop the Trend:
Miu Miu
Plume Suede Sneakers
These will go with every outfit and make it instantly more stylish.
Miu Miu
Gymnasium Technical Fabric and Suede Sneakers
An everyday shoe you’ll never tire of.
Miu Miu
Plume Technical Fabric and Suede Sneakers
Navy feels très Parisienne.
2. Brown Suede Trainers
Style Notes: Brown trainers and Parisian style are a natural match. This versatile, neutral hue always exudes sophistication and complements the effortless, understated looks synonymous with French fashion.
Shop the Trend:
adidas
Handball Spezial Shoes
Now this is a trainer I can get behind.
Alohas
Tb.56 Suede Trainers
Alohas has released so many desirable sneakers recently.
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Puma Speedcat Og Sneakers
Quick—these ones always sell out fast.
3. Gorpcore Trainers
Style Notes: Gorpcore might seem like an unexpected choice for Parisians, who are widely viewed as beacons of elegance and timeless style. Yet their effortless cool and finger-on-the-pulse attitude is exactly what this tech-inspired trainer trend embodies.
Shop the Trend:
ASICS
+ Kiko Curation Ub10-S Gel-Kayano® 20 Rubber-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers
SALOMON
Xt-6 Rubber-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers
A slightly more wearable option, if you’re just dipping your toe in the gorpcore trend.
SALOMON
Rx Marie Jeanne Collapsible-Heel Mesh and Nubuck Sneakers
Love them or hate them, you’ve never seen anything like them.
4. Onitsuka Tiger Trainers
Style Notes: Onitsuka Tiger might be the ‘it’ sneaker brand of 2025, but the French fashion crowd has figured out how to make these Japanese kicks feel enduringly chic.
Shop the Trend:
Onitsuka Tiger
Mexico 66 Sd “birch Metropolis” Sneakers
Comfy and versatile, these are worth every penny.
Onitsuka Tiger
Mexico 66™ “kill Bill – 2023” Sneakers
This yellow version has already done the rounds on Instagram.
Onitsuka Tiger
Mexico 66 “silver Off White” Sneakers
Mexico 66 is the most popular model, for good reason.
5. Retro Trainers
Style Notes: It’s no surprise that trainers leaning toward the classic end of the spectrum are a French favourite. Retro models—lightly updated over the decades—are a common sight on the streets of Paris.
Shop the Trend:
ADIDAS ORIGINALS
Samba Og Leather and Suede Sneakers
Just a hint of burgundy for good measure.
New Balance
Rc42 Suede Trainers
These will remain wearable all year round.
This colourway adds to the retro feel.
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